There appears to be no real consensus on the timing of the application of emollients and topical steroids in conjunction with each other. There is a theoretical risk that if the topical steroid is applied immediately after the emollient or vice versa then there is a risk of diluting the steroid or possibly transferring it to areas that do not require treatment. General consensus opinion is conflicting and is not based on controlled clinical studies; further evidence is required to clarify this issue.